Anyone upgraded their engine raw water filter to the plastic ones?

[Ruffles]

I have the old style bronze tube raw water strainer on my boat which really only filters out weed. Has anyone fitted one of the more modern plastic ones? If so does it have a finer filter?

I'm fitting a new raw water pump this w/e and I'm keen on protecting my investment!

I would also like to do more sailing and less engine maintenance....

 

[steveallan]

I've used a Vetus water filter for the last 4 years without any problems. Mesh seems to be about the same size as the bronze one on my last boat, but has a larger capacity.

 

[ccscott49]

When you replace your bronze one, can I have it please? Two if you have them.

 

[Ruffles]

Doesn't sound as though it will filter out the finer crud any more that the filter I have then. I think I'll stick with what I have!

Thanks,

 

[Ruffles]

Sorry!

 

[ccscott49]

Bu@@er, thought I was on a winner there!

 

[homa]

I have both,
The boat came with the grey plastic Vetus filter and I installed a new bronze one.
The only reason I fitted the bronze one is so that I can easily push a rod through to clear any blockage such as large crud or plasic bag. (It's happened to me on more than one occasion). Saves having to disconnect any piping.
The Vetus does not have a finer mesh than the bronze, but does have a larger filter area, and can be checked through perspex top without disconecting any parts.

 

[Ruffles]

I would have kept the bronze fitting through pure laziness!

Not too concerned about the filter capacity. On the couple of occasions the temperature alarm has sounded I have found I can stop the engine, unblock the filter and be off again before the boat has lost steerage way.

 

[marcusgillies]

if you want 2 bronze bulk head mounted 2" weed filters removed earler this year from a princess 388 mail me

 

[thalassa]

If you REALLY want to ditch the bronze strainer for a Vetus plastic one, avoid the smallest type with the centre wingnut. The big O-ring has a very short lifespan, and is expensive. The centre nut is another cause for having an airleak and consequently no cooling water. Had this with my old Dufour, getting into the Medway in a blow. Bought a bronze strainer in Chatham - seals are a few pennies in the DIY.
The only advantage of the Vetus type is some retention of fine silt, which is't reatined in the bronze type.
Cheers!